Press release issued in Newspapers: "The Nation" (6th March 2003), "Pakistan Observer" (12th March 2003), "The International News" (13th March, 2003).

ISLAMABAD: Apart from a multitude of benefits which accrue from tree plantation, one thing is sure that it means thinking of Pakistan's future.

"It is an exercise which normally does not benefit the one who takes pains to plant trees but it is the coming generation who reap the fruit. However, trees yield firewood, shade and wood for all purposes which has great importance," these views were expressed President Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) Usman Khalid Waheed.

According to a press release, the RCCI president was the chief guest at the launching of tree plantation campaign by the Pakistan Scout and Guide Fellowship (PSGF) at Mandra on the 50th Anniversary of the International Scout and Guide Fellowship, an international organisation of senior scouts. PSGF is its permanent member since 1980.

Usman Khalid launched the campaign by planting a pine tree. PSGF President A U Zafar, President Anjuman-e-Faizul Islam Qazi Sagheerul Haq and PSGF Secretary Maqbool Raza also planted the pine and polar trees along with other scouts. About 100 plants of different type were planted on the spot.

Speaking on the occasion, the PSGF President welcomed the RCCI President and the participants. He said that apart from other benefits, trees are the best way to stop soil erosion. He described role of the PSGF in the scout movement and its affiliation with the ISGF.

Qazi Sagheerul Haq gave details about the Mandra Complex and the arrangements being made for orphan boys residing in the complex.

The PSGF Secretary while appreciating the tree plantation drive said that Pakistan is in dire need of plantation. He also presented report of the PSGF activities in brief.

M Afzal Khan informed about the importance of different plants in the routine life and its medical and spiritual benefits as well.

A H Rathore, Mirza Zahoorul Haq, members of the PSGF, staff members of the complex and scouts attended the function.